#USA #Jacksonville #Convenience Stores #Acosta Group #Shopper Trends

The Ongoing Evolution of Convenience Store Shoppers: A 2025 Perspective

In recent years, convenience stores (c-stores) have transitioned from mere fuel stops to essential destinations for food and beverages. A recent study conducted by Acosta Group has illuminated the evolving behavior of convenience store shoppers, indicating a shift in how consumers engage with these stores. The findings reveal a significant 92% of consumers who enter c-stores do so for food and drink, with 63% of them making at least weekly visits.

Key Drivers of Consumer Engagement

Acosta's study highlights several factors driving shopper loyalty and frequency of visits to c-stores. Notably, convenience is paramount, with many consumers appreciating the ease of access to these establishments. The study showed that nearly a quarter (26%) of customers have increased their shopping trips this year. Mark Rahiya, Group President at Acosta, indicates that consumers remain budget-conscious, seeking value wherever possible.

Shoppers are not only driven by convenience but also by a more curated selection of products and enticing promotions. Acosta’s findings reveal that shoppers are keen on promotional offers, especially buy-one-get-one-free deals—69% of shoppers reported they pay attention to promotional signage at the pumps. With the right strategies, retailers can enhance shopper engagement and boost sales.

Changing Demographics and Buyer Preferences

The 2025 study identifies Millennials and Gen X as the dominant shopper segments, with men making up a significant proportion of the demographic. There has been a subtle shift in purchasing patterns, revealing that 72% of convenience shoppers now make planned quick trips specifically for items they need, a 6% increase from 2023. This trend suggests a more deliberate approach to shopping, further highlighting the importance of providing effective solutions to busy consumers.

Impulse purchases remain prominent; candy and salty snacks lead as top-selling categories. The data indicates that 63% of shoppers make impulse buys of candy, while 62% do so for salty snacks, reflecting consumer tendencies toward immediate gratification. Importantly, there is a notable desire for better-for-you options, with 61% of shoppers looking for health-enhancing products at least some of the time.

The Demand for Fresh and Healthy Options

Interestingly, there is a dichotomy in consumer preferences. While many shoppers are pursuing health-conscious choices, 30% of convenience store shoppers show little to no interest in better-for-you products. This highlights an opportunity for retailers to cater to health-focused consumers while understanding that not every shopper is on that journey.

The study shows a considerable inclination toward fresh preparations, with 51% of shoppers picking up hot meals at least once a week, up from 45% in 2023. Many of these shoppers believe c-store hot food options are comparable to, if not better than, those from traditional quick-service restaurants. Excitingly, the analysis has unveiled specific consumer preferences for new prepared food options, such as burritos, low-carb wraps, and skewers.

Retail Strategies Moving Forward

Acosta's research emphasizes that increasing trip frequency provides a ripe opportunity for retailers. Strategic enhancements to product assortment and variety can help meet the demand for fresh meal offerings throughout the day. Retailers should prioritize impulsive purchases of snacks and baked goods while also ensuring they have healthier items readily available.

As technology evolves, consumers show interest in modern conveniences, including self-checkout and mobile payment options, which can further drive engagement. With growing loyalty and consistent shopper frequencies, convenience stores can leverage these insights to refine their offerings and promotional strategies, ensuring they meet the demands of their evolving shopper base effectively.

In conclusion, the Acosta Group's study underscores the dynamic nature of convenience store shopping behaviors. By understanding the balance between convenience, product selection, and health considerations, retailers can position themselves to capitalize on these changes and drive future growth.